#United States #San Diego #Viking Therapeutics #VK2735 #VANQUISH Trials

Viking Therapeutics Reports on Q3 2025 Financials and Advancements

Viking Therapeutics, a biopharmaceutical firm based in San Diego and publicly traded on Nasdaq under the symbol VKTX, released its financial results for the third quarter and first nine months of 2025, highlighting significant progress in their clinical pipeline with the obesity treatment candidate, VK2735.

During a conference call held on the afternoon of October 22, 2025, Viking's CEO, Dr. Brian Lian, addressed stakeholders, affirming strong advancements across their ongoing clinical trials slated to tackle metabolic and endocrine disorders.

Key Achievements and Updates

In a promising turn of events, the third quarter produced positive results from the Phase 2 VENTURE study focusing on VK2735. The study indicated that patients experienced notable weight loss, averaging a 12.2% reduction from baseline. Furthermore, the results from a cohort undergoing maintenance dosing revealed the ability to sustain significant weight loss without signs of plateauing, demonstrating VK2735’s capability to offer flexible dosing options, alongside its weekly subcutaneous dose.

Viking has also confirmed that the Phase 3 VANQUISH trials for VK2735 are progressing on schedule, specifically targeting patients with obesity, as well as those facing obesity combined with type 2 diabetes. Recruitment for the VANQUISH-1 trial is expected to conclude by the end of 2025, with the second phase of the study anticipated to wrap up in Q1 of 2026. Dr. Lian expressed excitement over the rapid pace of participant enrollment, which underscores the enthusiasm among both patients and investigators.

In addition to the ongoing trials for VK2735, Viking is moving forward with its amylin agonist program with plans to file an Investigational New Drug (IND) application by early 2026. The ongoing research into dual receptor agonists positions Viking well within the competitive landscape for innovative weight management therapies.

Financial Snapshot

From a financial perspective, the report featured a robust cash position of $715 million, showcasing Viking's ability to sustain its operational activities and clinical developments. During Q3 2025, research and development expenses surged to $90.0 million compared to $22.8 million in the previous year, primarily reflecting heightened costs associated with clinical trials and staffing.

Nonetheless, the company reported a net loss of $90.8 million for the quarter, with a notable increase in expenses reflected in the broader fiscal context where net losses amounted to $202.0 million over the first nine months of 2025. Despite these losses, the attained cash reserves will potentially ensure the continuation of ongoing and future studies without interruption.

Looking Ahead

Viking Therapeutics continues to expand its clinical pipeline, and plans are in place for further discussions with regulatory authorities, particularly concerning the next steps for the oral formulation of VK2735. Researchers are optimistic about the outcomes as they prepare for scientific presentations at key future events, including ObesityWeek in November, where they will share insights from the VANQUISH trials.

The continuous advancement of Viking’s clinical programs, highlighted by positive interim results and accessible funding, indicates a promising trajectory for the company as it endeavors to lead in the treatment of obesity and associated disorders. As the management team reassures stakeholders, Viking’s focus remains firmly on leveraging its novel therapeutic strategies to meet critical unmet medical needs in the metabolic disorder space.